Technical Description of OBD-II Trouble Code
The reductant injection air pressure is too low.
What does that mean?
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code that applies to many OBD-II vehicles (1996-newer), including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Dodge, Sprinter, etc. The exact repair steps may vary depending on the year, make, model, and powertrain configuration.
A stored code P20E6 indicates that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected insufficient reductant injection air pressure.
The catalyst system is responsible for reducing all exhaust emissions, although some applications also have a NOx trap.
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems further reduce NOx. However, larger and more powerful diesel engines cannot meet strict U.S. emission standards with just the EGR, diesel particulate filter/catalytic converter, and NOx trap. This led to the invention of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.
SCR systems inject a reductant compound or diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) into the exhaust in front of the diesel particulate filter, NOx trap, and/or catalytic converter using the reductant injection valve (solenoid). The precise timing of DEF injection improves the performance of the filtration element, prolongs its lifespan, and reduces harmful exhaust emissions. The PCM or a stand-alone controller monitors and controls the entire SCR system, including the O2, NOx, and exhaust temperature sensors, to determine the optimal time for DEF injection. Accurate DEF injection is crucial for maintaining acceptable exhaust temperature and optimizing pollutant filtration.
The reductant/regeneration supply pump pressurizes the DEF in the liquid reductant system when needed. The PCM monitors the supply pump voltage for consistent fluctuation and load percentage. It also monitors one or more pressure sensors in the reductant supply system to detect any leaks.
If the PCM detects abnormally low reductant injection air pressure, it stores a code P20E6 and may illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). The MIL may require multiple ignition cycles with a failure to illuminate.
What is the severity of this DTC?
A stored code P20E6 should be considered severe and addressed as quickly as possible. It could disable the SCR system and potentially cause catalyst damage if the underlying conditions are not rectified promptly.
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P20E6 trouble code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Possible causes for this code include:
What are some P20E6 troubleshooting steps?
Ensure that the reductant/regeneration supply system does not have any internal or external pressure loss. Activate the pump to create pressure and inspect the system for external leaks. Use a fuel pressure tester to manually monitor reductant system pressure. Check the supply pump and injector for any leakage. If leaks are found, they must be repaired before proceeding with the diagnosis.
To diagnose a code P20E6, you will need a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and vehicle-specific diagnostic information.
Refer to your vehicle information source to find a technical service bulletin (TSB) that matches the vehicle’s year, make, model, engine size, stored codes, and exhibited symptoms. A TSB may provide helpful diagnostic information.
Use the scanner connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector to retrieve all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. It is recommended to write down this information before clearing the codes and then test-drive the vehicle until the PCM enters readiness mode or the code is reset.
If the PCM enters readiness mode, the code is intermittent and may be more challenging to diagnose. In such cases, the underlying conditions may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made.
If the code is immediately reset, the next step in the diagnosis involves searching your vehicle information source for diagnostic flowcharts, connector pin-out charts, connector face views, and component testing procedures/specifications.
Step 1
Use the DVOM to test the reductant injection system pressure sensors according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Consider components that do not test within the maximum allowable parameters as defective.
Step 2
If the reductant injection pressure is within specifications, the code P20E6 persists, and the sensor in question is functioning correctly, use the DVOM to test the input and output signal circuits between the sensors and the PCM/SCR controller. Disconnect all controllers before conducting the DVOM tests.
